Overview & Reviews

Drivers seeking a sporty sedan that's a bit more upscale than the typical family four-door will find a lot to like in the Acura TSX. It's a solid choice for daily use given its competent driving characteristics, high-quality interior and generous level of standard features. And like most Acura products, the TSX boasts a high level of refinement, a reputation for above-average reliability and decent value for the dollar.

The first-generation Acura TSX impressed us with its sporty and nimble feel, but the small backseat and firm ride weren't for everyone. The second (current) generation offers a roomier cabin and a smoother, more isolated ride, although the athletic feel was somewhat muted for these gains. The V6 model with its sportier suspension atones for that sin somewhat. Overall, the TSX is a smart choice, though not the most prestigious, for a new or used entry-level luxury sedan.

Current Acura TSX
For power, the front-wheel-drive TSX offers a choice of a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (201 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque) or a 3.5-liter V6 (280 hp and 254 lb-ft). A five-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models, while an excellent six-speed manual is optional only with the four-cylinder.

Base and Special Edition trims are offered, with the Special Edition being available only with the four-cylinder engine. Base models come with an impressive array of standard features that are often optional on competitors, like xenon headlights, a sunroof, heated power front seats with driver memory, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and a seven-speaker CD audio system with satellite radio and iPod integration. The TSX Special Edition adds more aggressive-looking exterior elements and sporty cabin upgrades such as red interior stitching and aluminum pedals. Base models with the four-cylinder engine may be upgraded with a Technology package that adds amenities like a navigation system and a rearview camera.

In reviews, we've found that while the 2.4-liter four is commendably smooth in the Honda tradition, it simply doesn't measure up to the six-cylinder and turbocharged four-cylinder engines found in other entry-level luxury sport sedans. The V6, however, provides a notable increase in thrust, delivered in a linear and smooth fashion.

In reviews, the TSX impressed us with its technology offerings, including one of the better optional audio systems around. But it disappoints with the way it drives, with numb steering feel that's uncharacteristic of a Honda product and braking performance that verges on unacceptable. The refined but lackluster inline-4 is also unlikely to impress shoppers in the TSX's upscale segment, although the sport-tuned V6 model brings improvements in both acceleration and handling. Ultimately, the TSX, particularly the four-cylinder version, often seems like more of a lavishly appointed family car than a luxury sedan.

Used Acura TSX Models
The current generation of the Acura TSX debuted for 2009 and brought a larger, roomier and somewhat controversially styled TSX to market. This first-year version was only offered with four-cylinder power -- there was no sportier V6 trim level.

The first-generation Acura TSX debuted in 2004. Sportier than the second-generation model, the original TSX was widely praised for its sharp handling and entertaining (though peaky) 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generated 200 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque. Among the standard features were items like 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, a sunroof, heated power front seats with driver memory, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and an eight-speaker audio system.

Antilock brakes, stability control, front side impact airbags and side curtain airbags for all outboard passengers were also standard. An impressive DVD-based navigation system with touchscreen and voice-activated software was the only available option for the well-equipped first-generation TSX.

In road tests, we found that while the original TSX's torque-deficient VTEC engine needed to be revved hard to get sufficient acceleration, it was nonetheless quite fun to wring out, especially when equipped with the slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission (a five-speed automatic was also available). Sharp handling and good steering feel made the TSX a sleeper sport sedan. The first-generation TSX also featured a high-quality and aesthetically pleasing interior design.

There were a handful of changes made to the original Acura TSX during its production run. Satellite radio, heated exterior mirrors and a power passenger seat were added in 2005. The 2006 TSX featured engine, feature and styling updates -- the four-cylinder engine was modified to produce 205 hp and 164 lb-ft of torque, and the navigation system gained faster processing and additional points of interest. Bluetooth, driver seat memory and the MP3 auxiliary jack were also new. Exterior enhancements included redesigned front and rear fascias, new side sills, foglamps and new alloy wheels. The following year saw a tire-pressure monitor fitted as standard, while 2008, the last year of this generation, saw no changes of note.

User Reviews:

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  Not impressed - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Suzie - June 21 - 12:26 pm

  Traded my 2006 TL. Got the TSX because TL no longer offered a manual transmission. Got the wing spoiler and underbody molding. Looks really "hot" in the basque red. That said, I should have stayed with the TL. Navigation is a waste. I can read a map "direct route" keeps you on main roads & takes you the long way traffic conditions on radio is better. Drivers seat has a hard spot in the middle of my back. The switchblade key spring is wearing out in less than a month. Radio has static. Bluetooth doesnt connect (this was problem with 2006 TL I would think they would have this fixed by now). Computerized MPG calculator isnt correct after fillups.

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  This car is awsome! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Martin, IL - June 20 - 2:47 pm

  I love my TSX! Since I got it back in February I put 9K miles on it and I average 27.3 MPG. I also clocked it at 7.1 0-60 and 15.2 1/4 mile. Edmunds times are way off to everybody elses for some reason (car&driver, road and track, motor trend etc) by about 1 full sec. for 0-60 an 1/4 mile! I love the handling .084 and the road feel. You cant beat that value for the money! Try to get a A4 or 3 series for $30K! Thats not going to happen! If youre looking for something fun, reliable, with the best resale value in its class - you found it! Im very happy with my car.

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  Would I lease it again? - 2009 Acura TSX
  By RC - June 19 - 12:49 am

  I have driven my 09 TSX/Accord Euro for over 3 months and put 4000+ miles on it. My first 4 cyl after 20 yrs. Hate the shake from the engine, (I know the V6 is coming, but for $5K please...) makes the car feel cheap, once accel. it is smooth. The ride is too firm on the highway, very tiring. Ive owned sports coupes and luxury cars and dont know if it is the seats (too firm or suspension). Tech pack great, however the XM Radio dynamic range is poor compared to my 06 Nissan Morano. DVD-A and IPOD audio amazing. Who designs cars should create deeper footwells in back seats, stupid. Use the S selection on the Automatic, wow drives like a different car. Too much road noise. Again? No.

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  Best deal - 2009 Acura TSX
  By pete in ny - June 18 - 8:44 am

  This is my second Acura. The first was a 2.3CL which had 180,00 when I sold it. This car is even better. Not only does it have the same look as the much more expensive vehicles but it is economical. I get almost 34 mpg on the highway. A great, fun car.

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  Jury Still Out - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Vanessa09 - June 17 - 2:35 pm

  Ive been driving my TSX for a month now and I like it a lot except for the ride quality. The suspension is way too stiff and the ride is jittery on any surface (as noted in Consumer Report). Im told that it will soften with time. I hope so. The 5.1 sound system is outstanding. I dont have a problem with the nav screen because Im short but I can see that if I was several inches higher in the seat, I would see the reflection of the windows in the nav screen. Not good. Excellent build quality overall and no problem whatsoever so far. Ill report again later in the year.

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  Best bang for your buck! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By KAM - June 11 - 11:15 am

  Car comes standard with many bells and whistles. Convenient seat memory buttons for two different settings. Bought car new in 2006 and paint seems to be cheap...deeply pitted on front bumper and hood, as well as chipped on back of car. Seems to get decent gas mileage and comfortable drive. Not great in the snow. Very poor voice recognition with the hands free. People Ive tried to talk to using hands free say it sounds like someones banging cans in the background. More aggravation than its worth and may as well not even have the function.

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  Entry level sports sedan - 2005 Acura TSX
  By TJ - June 11 - 8:36 am

  The 6-spd manual is a blast to drive. The throws are sweet and short. The 2.4L I-4 has good low end torque and can boogie at the upper rpms. The interior is beautiful with just about every luxury feature one would want. The factory stereo with in dash 6 disc changer is very powerful and crisp with great imaging. Fuel economy is as good as 30 mpg on highway. The ride is sporty without being too harsh or jarring. Good size backseat can actually accommodate 2-3 adults.

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  Acura TSX - Muy Bueno.... - 2009 Acura TSX
  By iggster - June 10 - 9:09 pm

  This car offers a great balance between luxury, technology, and practicality. Inside and out it shows Acuras attention to luxury details. It comes with more technology than many other more expensive brands. And this machine gives you a higher then average fuel economy for cars of this size, weight and costs.

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  TSX Delivers - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Mike - June 8 - 5:55 pm

  I have only had our TSX for a short time, but can honestly say that this car represents one of the best bargains available. From the styling to responsiveness, the TSX delivers. Honestly, I hadnt even looked at the TSX until two weeks before we bought the car. The first look left me very impressed. Ive had several people comment on how nice the car looks both inside and out (There are not a whole lot of new cars sold these days, so the lack of a license plate draws attention as does the car). On top of appearance, Acuras top-quality brand reputation made this purchase a no-brainer. Lexus IS was too small. VW CC was nice, but the Acura was better in our opinion.

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  A real smile creator - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Joey Sugoy - June 8 - 3:47 pm

  I am thrilled with this purchase. I have never had an instant of buyers remorse. I smile every time I see this car. For a four cylinder that delivers such great mileage, this car is incredibly responsive and a blast to drive.